News Centre
June 24, 2022 · Qiqi
Department of Home Affairs: “Concession” 485 Replacement Stream Expected to Open 1 July — Lodge Now, Visa Fees Rising in the New Financial Year!
Planning to apply for a Subclass 485 visa? From 1 July 2022, the temporary Graduate Work concession removes occupation list and skills assessment requirements, and the Replacement stream is expected to open. Visa application charges rise by 3% overall; nominated applicants can lodge before the increase.
June 24, 2022 · Mingqiang
Landlord vs Tenant: Common Rental Disputes in Australia and How Responsibility for Repairs and Maintenance Is Divided
For commercial lease repair disputes, first check how the lease allocates responsibility. Tenants usually handle general repairs, excluding fair wear and tear, structural repairs and capital expenditure. If damage makes the premises wholly or partly unfit for occupation, tenants can usually seek a rent reduction or even terminate the lease.
June 23, 2022 · Mingqiang
The lease hasn’t expired and the landlord says they’re raising the rent — “accept it or I’ll sell the house and kick you out”. Is this lawful?
With a valid NSW lease, a sale does not mean you must leave. Whether rent can rise during a fixed term depends on its length and terms. For terms under 2 years, increases require a lease clause specifying the amount or calculation method.
![[FIRB] Essential Knowledge for International Students, 485/491 Visa Holders, and Foreign Investors (Non-PR/Non-Citizens) Buying Property in Australia!](https://www.nslegal.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/firb-foreign-buyers-students-property-rules.webp)
June 22, 2022 · Mingqiang
[FIRB] Essential Knowledge for International Students, 485/491 Visa Holders, and Foreign Investors (Non-PR/Non-Citizens) Buying Property in Australia!
Temporary visa holders generally need FIRB approval and may buy only one established property for their own residence, which must be sold if no longer owner-occupied. Foreign investors must choose a new property, or vacant land for building one, for investment; an established property cannot be bought as an investment.
June 17, 2022 · Mingqiang
Hitting or Assaulting Someone at Random? The Consequences in Australia Can Be Very Serious
In NSW, common assault does not necessarily require physical contact or injury; threatening force may be an offence. Self-defence, duress, automatism or mental illness may provide a defence, but its availability and whether it is complete depend on the type of defence and the circumstances.
June 16, 2022 · Mingqiang
How to Respond to Workplace Discrimination When Job-Hunting or at Work?
If you face workplace discrimination when job-hunting or at work, you can complain or seek arbitration through FWO, FWC or AHRC, depending on the applicable law. Legal definitions of discrimination differ, so evidence should address the relevant definition. AHRC complaints are free and conciliation is attempted.
June 15, 2022 · Mingqiang
In Australia, Under What Circumstances Can a Contract Generally Be Terminated?
To terminate a contract, consider its terms, the importance of any breached term and whether the other party has repudiated it. Breach does not necessarily give a right to terminate: an intermediate-term breach must be serious, while breaching a warranty does not itself allow termination.
June 14, 2022 · Mingqiang
Do All Types of Cases in Australia Have a Limitation Period? Can You Still Seek Redress After It Expires?
If you plan to sue or have missed a limitation period, identify the case type and deadline. NSW contract claims have a six-year limit, except actions founded on a deed. Statutory extensions may be sought after expiry, subject to conditions and the court’s discretion.
June 10, 2022 · Mingqiang
When a Commercial Lease Dispute Arises in Australia: How Landlords and Tenants Can Properly Resolve Disputes
In a commercial leasing dispute, first understand your legal position, gather favourable and unfavourable evidence, and check the lease’s procedures and applicable rules. Communication also affects your rights: hasty responses may increase liability, while casual comments may even allow the other party to terminate the lease.
June 9, 2022 · Mingqiang
No Income After Divorce? You May Be Able to Apply for Spousal Maintenance!
If you struggle to support yourself after separation, a spousal maintenance application considers both your shortfall and the other party’s ability to pay. Most maintenance has a fixed term, and remarriage, a new de facto relationship or financial changes may affect payments.